Question

The wave that propagates as an oscillation of matter, and therefore transfers energy through a medium is
(A) Mechanical wave
(B) Ultrasonic wave
(C) Infrared wave
(D) None

Answer 1

Hint This problem can be solved through the concepts of wave and its types. Once we know the types of waves and how it works, we can easily spot the difference between the three alternatives given in the problem statement.

Complete step by step answer

To choose the correct option among the following we first need to understand the meaning of the wave, its type and how it works.
A wave is a series of disturbances from one place to another carrying energy in a regular form. The nature of waves is divided into two parts, Longitudinal waves and Transverse waves.
A wave that propagates as an oscillation of matter and also transfers energy through a medium is known as a mechanical wave. These waves can travel long distances, so the moment of transmission medium is bounded. As a result, the oscillating material stays near to its initial position. These waves only transfer energy and no material and that transferred energy follows the same direction as that of the wave.

So the correct option is A.

Note For further knowledge we must know the examples of mechanical waves and how they work. Seismic waves and sound waves are the examples of mechanical waves. Sound waves travel through a medium and the motion of its particles is in the same direction as that of transported energy.
This is the reason why we cannot hear in space as sound is a mechanical wave which needs a medium to travel through.